If you’re looking for a hearty and satisfying meal that requires minimal effort, then making a pot roast in an Instant Pot is the way to go. This method allows you to achieve tender, juicy meat infused with rich flavors in a fraction of the time compared to traditional cooking methods. Imagine coming home after a busy day and having a comforting dish ready to serve in just over an hour! With the Instant Pot’s pressure cooking capabilities, this recipe transforms tougher cuts of meat into succulent delights that will impress your family and friends. Not only is it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners, but it also shines during festive gatherings or special occasions. You can easily customize the spices and vegetables according to your preferences, making this dish versatile and adaptable. So grab your Instant Pot and get ready for an unforgettable culinary experience as we delve into how to create a perfect pot roast that everyone will love.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This POT ROAST IN INSTANT POT
- Ingredients for POT ROAST IN INSTANT POT
- How to Make POT ROAST IN INSTANT POT
- Tips and Tricks
- How to Serve POT ROAST IN INSTANT POT
- Make Ahead and Storage
- Suggestions for POT ROAST IN INSTANT POT
- Choose the Wrong Cut of Meat
- Skipping the Searing Step
- Ignoring Liquid Measurements
- Not Allowing Enough Time to Cook
- FAQs
- What is the best cut of meat for pot roast in Instant Pot?
- How long does it take to cook pot roast in Instant Pot?
- Can I add vegetables while cooking pot roast in Instant Pot?
- How do I store leftovers from my pot roast in Instant Pot?
- Conclusion for POT ROAST IN INSTANT POT
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This POT ROAST IN INSTANT POT
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients for POT ROAST IN INSTANT POT
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Chuck Roast: A well-marbled cut of beef works best as it becomes tender when cooked under pressure.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the meat before browning; use generously for added flavor.
- Olive Oil: For browning the meat; it adds flavor and helps achieve a nice crust.
- Onions: Adds sweetness and depth; slice them thinly for even cooking.
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses the dish with aroma; use at least three cloves.
For the Vegetables:
- Carrots: Cut into thick pieces so they hold their shape during cooking.
- Potatoes: Use Yukon gold or red potatoes; cut them into large chunks for even cooking.
For the Sauce:
- Bee’s broth (or beef stock): Provides moisture and flavor; choose low-sodium options if preferred.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami flavor; about two tablespoons will enhance richness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make POT ROAST IN INSTANT POT
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Season the Meat
Begin by seasoning the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
Step 2: Sauté the Meat
Turn on your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil once it’s hot. Brown the roast on all sides for about four minutes per side until golden brown.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Once browned, remove the roast from the pot temporarily. In the same oil, add sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant—about two minutes.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in one cup of beef broth while scraping up any browned bits stuck at the bottom of the pot. This step is crucial for flavor.
Step 5: Pressure Cook
Return the roast back into the pot along with chopped carrots and potatoes. Pour Worcestershire sauce over everything then seal lid tightly. Set on high pressure for one hour.
Step 6: Natural Release
After cooking time ends, allow natural pressure release for at least ten minutes before manually releasing any remaining steam.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Searing is Key: Don’t skip browning the meat; it enhances flavor significantly
- Add Fresh Herbs: Consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary during cooking for extra aroma
How to Serve POT ROAST IN INSTANT POT
This POT ROAST IN INSTANT POT is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare components of the POT ROAST IN INSTANT POT in advance. Chop vegetables and season the meat a day ahead. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This will save you about 30 minutes on cooking day.
- Storing: Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers, where they can last for up to three months.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the leftover pot roast in a saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of broth if it’s too dry and cover. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish covered with a lid, microwaving at medium power in two-minute intervals until hot.
Suggestions for POT ROAST IN INSTANT POT
Choose the Wrong Cut of Meat
Using the incorrect cut of meat can significantly affect your pot roast’s texture and flavor. For a successful pot roast in Instant Pot, choose cuts like chuck roast or brisket. These cuts have enough fat and connective tissue to become tender and flavorful during cooking. Avoid lean cuts like sirloin or tenderloin, as they can dry out quickly under pressure. Always check for marbling, as it adds moisture and enhances taste. When you select the right meat, you ensure that your pot roast will turn out juicy and delicious.
Skipping the Searing Step
One common mistake is skipping the searing step before pressure cooking. Searing your meat develops rich flavors through caramelization that infuses the entire dish. To sear properly, set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and brown the meat on all sides. This process not only enhances flavor but also improves the overall texture of your pot roast in Instant Pot. If you skip this step, you might end up with a bland taste that lacks depth. Always take time to sear; it makes a noticeable difference.
Ignoring Liquid Measurements
Liquid is crucial for proper pressure cooking in an Instant Pot. Many make the mistake of using too little or too much liquid when preparing pot roast in Instant Pot. Insufficient liquid can lead to burning, while excess liquid may dilute flavors. A good rule of thumb is to use at least one cup of broth or water, depending on the size of your roast. This helps create steam, ensuring even cooking while keeping your meat moist and flavorful. Always measure accurately to achieve the best results.
Not Allowing Enough Time to Cook
Patience is key when making a delicious pot roast in Instant Pot. One common error is not allowing enough time for proper cooking. While an Instant Pot speeds up many processes, a large cut of meat still requires adequate time to become tender. For a chuck roast typically weighing 3-4 pounds, aim for 60-90 minutes on high pressure. Additionally, allow natural pressure release for about 15 minutes after cooking before opening the lid fully. Rushing this process can result in tough meat that doesn’t meet expectations.

FAQs
What is the best cut of meat for pot roast in Instant Pot?
The best cuts for making pot roast in Instant Pot include chuck roast and brisket due to their higher fat content and marbling. These characteristics help break down during cooking, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish. Lean cuts like sirloin may not work well because they lack sufficient fat, leading to dryness and toughness after pressure cooking. If you’re looking for an optimal balance between flavor and tenderness, always choose cuts with some fat content for the best results.
How long does it take to cook pot roast in Instant Pot?
Cooking time for pot roast in Instant Pot varies depending on the size of your meat cut but generally ranges from 60 to 90 minutes on high pressure. For a typical 3-4 pound chuck roast, aim for about 70-80 minutes for ideal tenderness. After cooking, it’s important to let it rest by allowing natural pressure release for around 15 minutes before opening the lid fully. This resting period helps keep your meat juicy and enhances its flavor by allowing juices to redistribute throughout.
Can I add vegetables while cooking pot roast in Instant Pot?
Yes, adding vegetables while preparing pot roast in Instant Pot enhances both flavor and nutrition! Carrots, potatoes, onions, and celery are great options that complement beef well. However, it’s essential to layer them correctly; place root vegetables at the bottom of the pot before adding your seasoned meat on top. This prevents veggies from becoming overly mushy during pressure cooking while infusing them with rich beef flavors as they cook together.
How do I store leftovers from my pot roast in Instant Pot?
To store leftovers from your delicious pot roast in Instant Pot, allow it to cool down first before transferring it into an airtight container. Ensure that you include any leftover juices since they help maintain moisture during storage. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking; properly stored leftovers can last up to three days in the fridge or up to three months if frozen. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to retain moisture and enhance flavors.
Conclusion for POT ROAST IN INSTANT POT
Making a perfect pot roast in Instant Pot requires attention to detail and avoiding common mistakes such as selecting inappropriate cuts or skipping essential steps like searing and proper liquid measurements. Remember that patience pays off; allowing adequate cooking time ensures tenderness without sacrificing flavor quality. By choosing quality ingredients and following these guidelines carefully, you’ll enjoy a hearty meal that’s sure to impress family or guests alike! Happy cooking!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Pot Roast in Instant Pot
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in a hearty pot roast made effortlessly in your Instant Pot. This recipe transforms tough cuts of meat into tender, juicy delights infused with rich flavors, all in under two hours. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, you can customize the spices and vegetables to suit your taste. With just a few simple steps, this comforting dish will impress family and friends alike. Imagine the delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen as you serve up this easy pot roast—truly a centerpiece worth celebrating.
Ingredients
- 3–4 pounds chuck roast
- Salt and pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 onions, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 carrots, chopped
- 4 Yukon gold potatoes, quartered
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- 1. Season the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
- 2. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode; add olive oil and brown the roast for about four minutes per side until golden.
- 3. Remove the roast and sauté onions and garlic in the same pot until fragrant.
- 4. Deglaze with beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- 5. Return the roast to the pot along with carrots and potatoes; pour Worcestershire sauce over everything.
- 6. Seal the lid and set to high pressure for one hour.
- 7. Allow natural pressure release for at least ten minutes before serving.
Notes
– Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables like celery or parsnips for extra flavor.
– For a richer taste, add fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary during cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg





